MetService meteorologist Liz Walsh said the fine weather was likely to hang around until Saturday, with rain expected in Auckland, Coromandel and the Far North that night. Temperatures would remain relatively steady, with highs in the late teens and lows around 8C expected in Auckland.

"The best weather is further south -- head to Wellington," Ms Walsh said.

Fine, frosty days were forecast for the south, with very chilly mornings.